Elvis Stojko amazes students in Ennismore

St. Martin School learning commons specialist Elaine Hancock dropped her lesson plans for the week Tuesday when she learned figure skating icon Elvis Stojko was going to skate with students Thursday.

Having taught the sport locally for more than 32 years herself, she knew there was so much to gain from talking about the dedication of the three-time world champion, two-time Olympic silver medallist and seven-time Canadian champion.

“All we did was talk about Elvis all week. He is such an inspiration and role model,” she said during the morning skate at the Robert E. Young Recreation Centre attended by more than 300 students from kindergarten to Grade 8.

Stojko was all smiles as he offered high fives while casually chatted with students, their families and school staff in between posing for photos.

A different grade was brought out on the ice each hour. Before each group left, they lined up along the side boards so Stojko could perform. Children voiced their amazement as he demonstrated his signature spins, jumps and foot work.